Definition

Noun: A word, phrase, or statement that has two meanings, one of which is usually obvious and innocent, while the other is often risqué, suggestive, or sexually explicit. It is a form of deliberate ambiguity used for humorous or clever effect.

Usage

A "double entendre" is used to create wit, humor, or a subtle, often suggestive, implication. It is common in literature, comedy, advertising, and everyday conversation where a clever play on words is intended. The primary, surface-level meaning is typically straightforward, while the secondary meaning is the one that carries the intended, often cheeky, implication.

Examples

• The comedian's joke was a clever double entendre that made the audience laugh.
• Many song lyrics from that era are full of subtle double entendres.
• The advertisement's slogan was a double entendre, appealing to both a literal and a suggestive interpretation.

Advanced Usage

• To be full of double entendre: Describes speech or writing that contains many such ambiguous phrases.
  • His speech was witty and full of double entendre.
• A deliberate/double entendre: Emphasizes the intentional nature of the ambiguity.
  • The line was not an accident; it was a deliberate double entendre.

Variants and Related Words

• Pun: A joke exploiting the different possible meanings of a word or the fact that there are words that sound alike but have different meanings. While related, a pun is often broader and not necessarily suggestive.
• Innuendo: An indirect or subtle observation, usually derogatory or suggestive. An innuendo often implies something without using a double-meaning word, whereas a double entendre relies on the dual meanings of the words themselves.

Synonyms

• Ambiguity
• Equivocation
• Play on words

Idioms and Phrases

• A risqué double entendre: Specifically highlights the suggestive or indecent secondary meaning.
  • The play was famous for its risqué double entendres.

Noun

1. an ambiguity with one interpretation that is indelicate